Yesterday Gov. Cuomo announced his 2014 budget proposal, and it includes publicly financed Fair Elections. This is a major step for Cuomo, and puts the campaign in great position to win in the state. And after decades of passing Fair Elections bills, the state Assembly has recommitted their support. But there's still a roadblock.

Who's still standing in the way? The New York State Senate led by Dean Skelos, a Long Island Republican, and Jeff Klein, an "Independent Democrat" from the Bronx and Westchester. Last year, despite the votes for passage likely being there, those two prevented a final vote. The campaign will continue to pressure Senate leadership to give New Yorkers what they have made clear they want: Fair Elections now!

From the statement: "By including public financing of elections in the budget, Governor Cuomo has demonstrated national leadership. The Governor is showing he is serious about cleaning up Albany and fixing our broken political system," said Citizen Action of New York's Karen Sharff, speaking on behalf of the coalition.

Fair Elections reform will enhance the voices of ordinary New Yorkers and fight back against the big money influence that runs rampant in Albany. We are so close to having a state government in New York that works for the many, not the money, and we can't let Senate leadership stand in the way. This is a huge step in the right direction, but there is still much more work to do.

The Fair Elections for New York campaign will continue to fight for this victory. Check out how you can get involved here.